Sandy River Festival to return to Strong June 10

The Sandy River Festival, a celebration of the natural beauty and rich history of the Sandy River, is coming back to Strong for the first time since 2008.

The festival is scheduled for Saturday, June 10, along the banks of the river at the Legion Field in Strong, and will include activities and live music.

Parking will open at 9 a.m. at the American Legion field, 76 South Main St.

“We hope people across the region will join us for this fun celebration of value that the Sandy River brings to our communities,” said Andrew Bracy, a member of the volunteer group of local residents organizing the revival of the event, according to a news release from Marc Edwards, regional outreach coordinator with the Natural Resources Council of Maine.

There are a wide range of activities on and off the river to entertain people of all ages:

• Paddle nine miles along the Sandy River from Strong to Fairbanks, with shuttle provided (personal flotation devices are required per Maine law);

• Log rolling, boom run and canoe competitions;

• Fly-casting lessons and fly-tying demonstrations with local experts;

• Presentation by Maine’s poet laureate, storytelling with local author Karen Calloway, and music from the Sandy River Ramblers;

• Inner tube float for kids;

• A visit by Maine Guide Fly Rod Crosby;

• Great Grub Food Truck; and

• Strong Fire Department BBQ.

Updates on the activities and more will be posted on the event’s Facebook page.

Sponsors of the event include the town of Strong and Natural Resources Council of Maine.

For additional information, email vtu155@gmail.com or call 207-684-4429.